The Best Running Shoes for Women

The best running shoes for women are presented below. Some might prefer one over the other but as these reviews will show, you really can’t go wrong with any of them.

ASICS Women’s GEL-Kayano 21 Running Shoe

The Kayano women’s line has been significantly improved, with the biggest upgrade being the increased protection for heel striking. Fit wise, the Kayano is just right and is ideal for keeping a steady, constant pace. They’re especially good for long distance running.

This is the 21st edition of the Kayano and that’s indicative of its quality and built. Just like the previous models, the 21st Kayano has extensive support, and they’re available in a variety of styles, ranging from the basic to the striking. The lite-show model is reflective and the glow in the dark Gel is handy for nighttime running.

The sole is solidly built, with the outer part laden with the Kayano’s patented gel. It’s this gel that gives the shoes its shock absorption capability, something runners will be grateful for. The treads are nicely designed as well with curved lines along the bottom and hardened foam.

The extra heel striking protection led to some design changes, but it’s all for the better. There’s more support now than before and the treads can handle tough running conditions and changing weather. The Fluid Fit mesh is as good as advertised, stretching and conforming to your feet without being too snug.

Saucony Women’s Ride 7 Running Shoe

The Ride 7 is as light as advertised, but it’s still durable and provides flexibility. There’s sufficient cushion for your feet when you run, but the best thing about though is the PowerGrid EVA foam from the toe to the heel. This single cushion layer along with the flexible outsole provides the shoe a smooth feeling even if you run at full speed.

As impressive as the new feature set is, the shoe now weighs less than 10 ounces. Now it doesn’t feel like you’re running with lead as it’s much lighter than previous releases. The forefoot is still flush but it’s more flexible now. The outsole has been modified too so it’s more durable with the carbon rubber. Any way you look at it, the Rider 7 is strong enough to handle different running gaits and pronators.

These shoes combine traditional design with modern technology and it works. The dual density mesh and welded overlays increases its durability. A look at the toe box will also show there’s a rand around it, and this serves as additional support. Fitting is more secure with the plush tongue and heel collar, and the eyelets have been fortified as well. The overall feeling you get is one of convenience.

Adidas Performance Women’s Duramo 6 W Running Shoe

Adidas has been churning out quality female running gear for a long time, and the Duramo is a worthwhile addition. It’s a decently priced shoe that provides just the right amount of comfort and performance boost for running and training.

This is a budget shoe but it doesn’t sacrifice comfort or quality. The design allows you to run without feeling undue pressure on your feet, and it’s just as convenient when used in the gym. Whether you’re working out, running on a track, jogging or sprinting, the Duramo delivers.

Both men and women’s shoes are available in different colors but this model has been tweaked, in particular the sole for the women’s line. The Duramo now has a flat arch heel and there’s full Adiprene+ on the midsole. Design wise, the Duramo fully integrates Adiwear technology so the sole will last longer compared to other shoes. The outsole also has a non-marking rubber touch that makes it more resistant to wear and tear.

Grip has always been one of the hallmarks of Adidas and this is no exception. The outsole has Traxion technology and it has new flex grooves on the underfoot, a feature not available in older models.

New Balance Women’s 711 Mesh Cross-Training Shoe

The 711 doesn’t lack as far features go, highlighted by its manmade sole, CUSH+ midsole and 8mm heel to toe drop. The 711 also has a comfort insert with a “pillow” for your heels, and this helps a lot when you’re running on a regular basis. At 6.6 oz. this is one of the lightest shoes around, and this is going to reduce the pressure on your feet.

If you’ve tried their other shoes, you’ll notice some differences in terms of the design: the 711 has a lower cut and don’t have that bulky appearance. Even if it’s your first time to wear these you’ll notice how flexible and light it is, and the shoe is made from a specially designed mesh fabric that provides heel cushion.

The 711 is as suited for running as it is for walking and the gym. There’s sufficient protection for your feet so you won’t feel pain even with constant pounding. In fact, these shoes are so comfortable they are worn for light walks. More than anything else though, these sneakers have a nice bouncy feel that will make you want to keep going. The cushion is soft and the sole and foot bed are resilient without being too hard.

Nike Women’s Free 5.0 Running Sneaker

This sneaker was designed not just for running but to give your feet complete freedom. It’s not uncommon to hear of female runners complain their feet is cramping up or feels squeezed after running for a long time. That’s one of the issues that Free 5.0 has addressed.

The deep grooves on the sole run vertically and horizontally, so this is the only running shoe that you can twist in whatever direction you want. There’s a tight mesh on the upper, but it doesn’t sacrifice breathability or flexibility. Your foot’s freedom of movement is helped by the shoe’s lightness, and aside from allowing quick footfalls, the cushion is very soft and provides the necessary support.

The shoe’s design also prevents debris from affecting your strides. Some prefer to put the shoes without socks while others do, but it really doesn’t matter because your feet will feel comfortable either way. In short, the Free 5.0 shoes aren’t just light but flexible too.

The claim that it’s breathable is true, and you can feel the difference with your feet whether on pavement or grass. There’s plenty of support as well, and the low profile doesn’t hurt performance either. If you don’t want to feel pain while running, give this a try.